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Brighton & Sussex Medical School

Brighton & Sussex Medical School’s degree is awarded jointly between the University of Sussex and the University of Brighton. BSMS pride themselves on offering a modern and innovative course with the modern facilities, including a state of the art anatomy suite, and supportive learning. The integrated curriculum emphasises early clinical exposure, with your first patient contact happening in your very first year.

BSMS select candidates for interview based on BMAT score. This means that if you score well in the exam, and have a good chance of exceeding the cut-off, it’s a good choice to almost guarantee an interview invitation.

Key Points

  • BMAT 
  • Optional Intercalation
  • Integrated Teaching Style

Insider’s Guide to Brighton & Sussex Medical School from Evie O’Rourke, Brighton & Sussex Medical Student

What makes BSMS unique to other medical schools?

I really love the atmosphere at BSMS. Whilst I hear from a lot of other medical schools that they feel stressed by the competitive atmosphere, I haven’t really felt that at BSMS. We are all trying to be better clinicians, but BSMS goes about it in a different way – I remember in the first week, we had a talk about what to get out of our time at medical school. And the overriding consensus was that whilst we should aim to be good clinicians and pass exams, that it was equally important to enjoy ourselves and expect to fail at some point. This wasn’t said to shock or scare us, but it was to reassure us that this is normal and we should use it as a learning moment and let it make us better clinicians. This is something which really stuck with me, after having pushed myself so hard throughout academics to get the best possible grade, to the point of being burnt out. Now, I make sure I prioritise fun and I try to punish myself less if I fall short of my own expectations. Maybe not so surprisingly, I’ve found it to make me a much better student and my grades and feedback from mentors have reflected this.

Course Structure at Brighton & Sussex Medical School

Year 1 at Brighton & Sussex Medical School

Years 1 and 2 offer a systems-based approach to pre-clinical learning. There are 3 main modules in year 1, two of which focus on everything to do with the Cardiovascular and Respiratory and Gastrointestinal systems. Across each module, you’ll learn the anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology and histology that govern these bodily systems. The 3rd module – Introduction to Health and Disease – acts as a bridge between A-level and university education to help students ease their way into medical school with minimal interruption and stress. There is also a Clinical and Community Practice module that runs once a week across the whole academic year, allowing for early clinical exposure.

Assessments in year 1 are primarily essay-based, barring one integrated knowledge exam covering all 3 modules at the end of the year. There is also a strong emphasis on self-reflection throughout the course.

Year 2 at Brighton & Sussex Medical School

Similar to Year 1, Year 2 is composed of systems-based modules surrounding the Neurological, Endocrinological and Musculoskeletal systems. Clinical and Community Practice and placements continue to run once a week across the whole academic year. 

Year 2 uniquely boasts ‘immersion weeks’ – week-long placements in a variety of clinical settings – to transition students into the following years of clinical learning. 

The assessments take a similar format to the previous year, i.e.; a mix of essays and integrated knowledge exams as well as plenty of self-reflections.

Year 3 at Brighton & Sussex Medical School

From year three onwards, students are based on the wards for the majority of the week, with one day dedicated to lectures/study. There are 3 main placements, lasting 11 weeks each, based in Surgery, Medicine or Geriatrics/Psychiatry. 

A unique assessment type in year 3 are the case-based discussions where students are asked to present patient cases to clinicians with a full history, examination findings, differential diagnoses, probable investigations and a management plan. This encourages evidence-based application of clinical skills and knowledge.

Year 4 at Brighton & Sussex Medical School

Year 4 offers a range of specialties across which students rotate, including,

  • ENT
  • Ophthalmology
  • Neurology
  • Microbiology and Sexual Health
  • Rheumatology
  • Dermatology
  • Oncology
  • Hematology
  • Palliative Care
  • Pediatrics
  • Clinical and Community Practice

Students also have the opportunity to partake in an individual research project throughout the year to build key skills in academia and perhaps, the chance to gain valuable research skills and a publication.

Year 5 at Brighton & Sussex Medical School

Year 5, in many ways, mimics Year 3 as students rotate through placements in Surgery, Medicine and Psychiatry/Geriatrics. At the end of the year, students can opt to partake in a global elective to learn more about healthcare practices in other parts of the world.

Teaching Style at Brighton & Sussex Medical School

What is the general teaching style at BSMS? E.g. is it PBL/Traditional? etc.

It uses an integrated system-based learning style with small group teaching seminars running alongside lectures which explore topics and themes in greater details and sometimes with case examples.

Does BSMS offer dissection?

Yes! We have full body dissection for Year 1 and 2. This was a super valuable experience and something that I really enjoyed – it provides context for your learning and you start to learn about the normal variation between different people as well as start to learn how to recognise different pathologies.

Does BSMS offer a BSc? If so, how is the BSc year?

Yes – you can intercalate after the third year, this is optional and not mandatory and gives people the option to study something a little different and spend a year living in a different area of the country.

What is the pre-clinical / clinical split like? Do you get early clinical exposure?

The first two years are predominantly pre-clinical but BSMS are really keen to introduce early clinical exposure which is partly why I loved the course. You spend four days of the week in lectures. There is one day a week dedicated to clinical/practical skills and you’ll have rotations involving a whole range of topics including: visiting a GP surgery, seminars in inclusivity and diversity, to practical skills such as giving IM injections and measuring blood glucose.

Social Life at Brighton & Sussex Medical School

What are the clubs and societies like? What is the social life like?

I’ve been blown away by the number of societies there are at BSMS. Within the med school there are easily at least 30 different societies, but then there is also the opportunities to join the societies from Uni of Brighton and Sussex University – of which they have around 150 each! So there really are endless opportunities to find something you’re interested in. I’ve enjoyed joining book clubs, dabbling in badminton, and recently enjoyed a lecture from two plastic surgeons as that’s an area that I’m really interested in! So, societies and clubs are so, so diverse and give the opportunity to get more active, or engage in medical specialties or find new and interesting hobbies! If you’re passionate about something, you may want to join a society committee – this is great for later on when applying for jobs as they give you experience in leadership, organising events and managing people. For me, being on the committee for our Oncology, Hematology and Palliative Care Society was amazing as I got to organise a series of events in research which helped me build up contacts and network with professionals as well as give something back by providing widening participation opportunities for local high school and college students who are interested in medicine/science/research.

FAQs

→What is Brighton & Sussex Medical School?

Brighton & Sussex Medical School (BSMS) is a partnership between the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex. It is a modern medical school that aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to become competent and compassionate healthcare professionals.

→What is Brighton and Sussex Medical School known for?

Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) is known for its innovative approach to medical education, its commitment to patient-centered care, and its emphasis on research. The school is a partnership between the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex and has a strong reputation for producing competent and compassionate healthcare professionals.
One of the unique aspects of BSMS is its focus on patient-centered care. The school emphasizes the importance of treating patients as individuals, taking into account their physical, psychological, and social needs. This approach is integrated into the curriculum, with students learning about the social determinants of health and the importance of working with patients to develop personalized care plans.
BSMS is also known for its commitment to research. The school has a strong research program, with faculty and students actively involved in conducting cutting-edge research across a range of disciplines. This research informs the curriculum and ensures that students are prepared to address the latest challenges and opportunities in healthcare.
Finally, BSMS is known for its supportive and inclusive learning environment. The school is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive community for all students, regardless of their background or identity. This commitment is reflected in the school’s policies, programs, and initiatives, which promote diversity, equity, and inclusion at all levels of the institution.

→What medical courses are offered at Brighton & Sussex Medical School?

Brighton & Sussex Medical School offers several medical courses, including a 5-year undergraduate Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program, a 4-year graduate entry MBBS program, and various postgraduate courses in healthcare education and research.

→What are the admission requirements for Brighton & Sussex Medical School’s MBBS program?

To be considered for Brighton & Sussex Medical School’s MBBS program, students must achieve AAA at A-levels or equivalent qualifications, complete the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT), and pass the interview process.

→What is the interview process like for Brighton & Sussex Medical School’s MBBS program?

The interview process for Brighton & Sussex Medical School’s MBBS program typically includes a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format, which involves a series of short interview stations where students are assessed on different aspects of their personality, communication skills, and ability to think on their feet.

→What is the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT), and how important is it for admission to Brighton & Sussex Medical School’s MBBS program?

The UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT) is a cognitive aptitude test that measures a student’s critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities. It is used by Brighton & Sussex Medical School and other UK medical schools to assess a student’s suitability for a career in medicine.

→Is Brighton and Sussex Medical School good?

Yes, Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) is considered to be a good medical school with a strong reputation for producing competent and compassionate healthcare professionals.
BSMS is consistently ranked highly in various UK university rankings, including The Guardian University Guide and the Complete University Guide. The school is known for its innovative approach to medical education, which emphasizes patient-centered care, hands-on clinical experience, and research.

Additionally, BSMS has a strong track record of employment for its graduates, with many securing positions in some of the top medical institutions in the UK and abroad.
It is important to note that individual experiences may vary, and it is essential to research and compare different medical programs to determine which one is the best fit for individual needs and goals.

About the university

Key Information
Email [email protected]
Phone number 01273 641842
Course Information
Teaching style Integrated
Integration of systems based learning with clinical teaching in both primary and secondary placements. In early years you will also cover core biomedical and psychosocial sciences including cadaveric dissection, augmented reality and prosection teaching.
In later years you will focus on general specialties and specialist disciplines alike as your knowledge base grows.
Course length
BSC
Courses offered
Graduate entry
Foundation or access
University Life
Local area Brighton
BSMS is located in Brighton, Sussex. The university is right on the edge of South Downs which is a beautiful national park and perfect for scenic walks and runs. The city of Brighton is located on the coast and renowned for its enclitic and energetic culture. Even though it's a smaller city there is plenty to do, including festivals, museums and the famous Pier.
Social life During your first year students live in either Sussex University Campus or Brighton University, which are both a short walk from the main medical school. A great advantage of being a BSMS student is you are a member of two universities (Brighton and Sussex) meaning you have access to societies from both universities. There are also societies specifically for the medical school - so you'll have so many opportunities to try new things and make new friends!
Interview
Interview style MMI
5 stations, each 10 minutes in length
Interview dates
Interview topics
Admissions Tests
UCAT N/A
BMAT
GAMSAT
Academic Requirements
GCSE
A-level
Retake policy
Scottish highers
Scottish advanced
IB
Bachelor's Degree (Gradutes Only)
Statistics
Number of applicants per interview (Home)
Number of applicants per interview (International)
Number of applicants per place (Home)
Number of applicants per place (International)

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